That's Not What Happened by Kody Keplinger (4/5)

That’s Not What Happened tells the story of Lee and five others who are known as the survivors of a school shooting at Virgil County High School. Based three years after the shooting, Lee’s best friend, Sarah McHale, is rumored to have been killed defending her religious beliefs after the shooter insulted her cross necklace. But really, Lee was with Sarah when she was killed. Sarah’s parents want to write a book telling the story of how their daughter died honorably. Lee wants her and the other survivors to come together to share the true story of what happened. Miles Mason was suspected to be behind the shooting. Ashley Chambers, saved by Miles. Eden Martinez and Denny Lucas who were 2 survivors in the computer science lab. Denny is a blind student that was shot but still survived. And finally, Ashley Chambers, now paralyzed, was mostly avoided during school as she bullied anyone who got in their way. Based on a true story, this book shows deep emotions in the characters that made the whole story engaging. Keplinger focuses, not only on Sarah’s story, which may not be what happened but also on the other survivor's stories that each don't completely connect. Each character had their own special history and stories that influenced many rumors to commence. They were all emotionally troubled and all had different types of coping methods. I found this book very slow-paced, but the buildup and connection between each individual character keep the story compelling. I found myself wanting to read page after page. I learned from this novel that speaking up is always the right thing to do, even if there are complications or feelings that could hold you back. Keplinger really digs deep into the minds of each individual character to help portray their situation to the reader. I started to sympathize with the characters still knowing it is a fictional story. I feel other teens would enjoy this book as much as I did as everything is very realistic and heartfelt. This 307-page book is quick to read and packed with so much sensation.